Housing Accommodations

University Housing is committed to meeting the needs of all students, to the best of its ability, by providing an inclusive, respectful and safe living environment. University Housing takes these concerns very seriously.

Disability Accommodations

University Housing strives to provide equal access to housing for all residents in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADA), the Fair Housing Act, and other applicable federal and state regulations that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability.

The Office of Disability Resources (ODR) is the designated office to determine reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must include sufficient documentation meeting university guidelines and address the impact of the disability supporting the need for housing accommodations. Neither the presence of a disability nor approval for a housing accommodation guarantee on-campus housing.

Both on-campus housing and housing accommodations must be applied for on an annual basis.

Service Animals (SA) and Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

Per the University's Animals on Campus policy, animals that assist individuals with disabilities to fully access and participate within the residential community may be approved to live within the residence halls.

Students requesting a Service Animal (hereinafter "SA") or Emotional Support Animal (hereinafter "ESA") within University Housing must:

If determined eligible to have an SA or ESA in University Housing, the specific animal must also be approved. Required information for the animal shall include veterinarian certification (See Animal Guidelines and Expectations for further information regarding this certification) and a color photograph of the animal.

If the request is approved, University Housing will contact the resident and, if applicable, roommate or suitemates via their Appalachian email account to electronically sign the Animal Guidelines and Expectations. Once the process is fully completed, ODR will send official notification via the resident's Appalachian email account that the animal can begin residing in University Housing.

Residents who are uncomfortable living in close proximity to a service/assistance animal should contact University Housing to discuss options, including possible reassignment.

Gender Considerations

We offer some gender-inclusive housing options to ensure that University Housing is a supportive space for residents of all gender identities and gender expressions (Definition: For the purpose of gender-inclusive housing, gender non-conforming is a term for individuals whose gender expression is different from societal expectations related to gender. Gender expression is how a person represents or expresses one's gender identity to others, often through behavior, clothing, hairstyles, voice or body characteristics).

Undergraduate students can apply to the ASUnity Residential Learning Community (RLC) which seeks to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where LGBTQ+ students, along with allies, can live and learn together. This RLC blends academic study and co-curricular activities focused on gender, sexuality, acceptance, and social justice. The community is supported by Residence Life and a team of faculty and staff.

All options listed above are preferences and there is no guarantee that any or all preferences can be met. University Housing and Multicultural Student Development will work collaboratively to determine the best housing assignment based upon available options.